Power Supplies

In short: A power supply converts the mains voltage (230 V alternating current) into the direct voltage devices need.

In more detail: There are external plug-in power supplies and built-in ones, for example in the PC.

In Depth

PC power supply (ATX)

Delivers 12 V, 5 V and 3.3 V to the motherboard, graphics card, drives. Important data: power in watts, efficiency class (80 PLUS Bronze to Titanium), protection circuits.

Designs

Switch-mode power supplies are small and efficient and standard today. Linear power supplies are simple but lossy.

Choosing

Plan some reserve over the actual consumption. Quality saves trouble, because a faulty power supply can damage other components. See power, power distribution, chargers.

See also: Power, Power Distribution, Chargers, Computer